The shortlist for the annual Libraries Connected Awards has been announced, with several Manchester Libraries staff members in contention for awards this year.
The awards recognise the achievements of library workers who have made an exceptional difference to their users or the wider community, with categories reflecting the charity’s Universal Library Offers and Promises.
Manchester Libraries has nominations in three categories including a craft-based wellbeing activity, diversity in children’s books and work to support visually impaired residents.
This follows Manchester Libraries success in the Libraries Connected Awards in 2025 where they won the Culture and Creativity category for the cultural programme at the creative space in Wythenshawe’s Forum Library.
Manchester nominations this year include:
Health and Wellbeing category : Anna Putek, Manchester – inclusive craft groups, city‑wide initiatives and “worry worms”
Share the vision category : Thom Williams, Manchester – audio trail for visually impaired visitors and
Share the vision category: Books to Go staff, Manchester – expanded partnerships supporting residents with visual impairments
Children and Young People category: Cheryl Pridgeon and Margaret Duff, Manchester – diversity in children’s books and See Myself in Books festival.
The shortlist will now be considered by an expert panel, with the winners revealed in June at a ceremony during the Libraries Connected annual seminar.
Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills said:
“We are delighted that some of our library staff have been recognised by their peers for the sterling work that they do in making our libraries relevant to all our communities. Whatever the outcome of the awards we know that our staff always go the extra mile and their dedication and hard work is appreciated by us all.”
Isobel Hunter MBE, chief executive of Libraries Connected, said:
“Huge congratulations to all the staff who have been shortlisted for the Libraries Connected Awards 2026. We had a record-breaking number of nominations this year and the range of projects put forward shows just how creative and committed library workers are, even in challenging times. It’s inspiring to see how staff respond to local needs, find new ways to connect people and ensure that libraries remain welcoming and trusted places for everyone. We’re delighted to recognise their achievements.”
Libraries Connected are an independent charity that supports, promotes and represents public library services across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
